Horticulture Intergenerational Learning as Therapy, a New Project Publication for 4H Clubs and Local Geriatric Programs

Abstract

The population of senior citizens in our society (65 and older) are growing at a faster rate than any other segment of the population. Loss of decisionmaking capabilities coupled with controlled retirement home environments can lead to stress and depression in our elderly. At the same time, our nations youth no longer enjoy a family nucleus that includes elders who help guide youth away from risky activities. The publication “HILT: Horticulture Intergenerational Learning as Therapy” (Cornell Media Services, Ithaca, N.Y., in press) was used as a guidebook for combining senior citizens and gradeschoolers at three local settings in 1995 and 1996. The project encourages elders to take charge and mentor youth while leading youth in an indoor and outdoor gardening program. The pilot projects included a public gradeschool site, a mental day-care facility, and a local retirement home. Youth benefited by learning about their elders and about horticulture. The subject of horticulture provides a comfortable and valuable learning environment as well as a focal point for the participants. The project provides three evaluation methods that include survey, interview, and leader observation tools. In our study, senior participation increased by 75% during two 8-week projects and 40% during a 7-month project. Surveys reveal that senior citizens were nervous and concerned about behavior of young people before the project, yet renewed and excited about future projects after participation. Youth enjoyed hearing stories, learning about planting, and getting dirty. Use of self concept and morale scales will be presented. A copy of the project publication as well as ideas about using the publication will be provided in the discussion.